Construction Confidence climbs to its highest point this year, Dale Wharton wins Super Trowel (and a Ford Transit Custom), and CIOB launches silica dust awareness campaign
Construction confidence jumped to its highest level this year in July.
According to the Lloyds Business Barometer, more than two-thirds of industry firms expect business activity to increase over the next year, with a similar number planning to hire more staff.
More than half of businesses said stronger customer demand was behind their renewed optimism.
Forty percent of firms also pointed to the easing of interest rates and improving financial conditions.
A Lloyds spokesperson said it was encouraging to see firms invest in people and capacity to support future demand.
---
Dale Wherton picked up a brand-new Ford Transit Custom after winning Super Trowel at the weekend.
The bricky laid an impressive 837 bricks in an hour and will now compete in the US at Spec Mix in January.
Tom Humphrey came in second, scoring 795 bricks and taking home the golden trowel for the fewest deductions.
---
Research from the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) has found a worrying lack of awareness and knowledge about the dangers of silica dust.
The trade body has produced a toolkit designed to help industry professionals minimise exposure.
Dr Scott McGibbon said that silica dust was one of construction’s most underestimated hazards.
---
To listen to the construction news, please click below.
